Resources for COVID-19 Information

Veterinarians, as trained health professionals and One Health advocates, are an important source of information regarding SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19.

The WVA is pleased to provide
this list of resources compiled from national and international veterinary
groups, public health agencies, and intergovernmental organizations. The causative agent of COVID-19 is a betacoronavirus, SARS-CoV-2
(formerly 2019-nCoV). The primary route of transmission between people
is contact with an infected person's bodily secretions; spread from
contact with fomites is also possible. Since there are no antiviral drugs
licensed to treat COVID-19, infection prevention is key. Preventative actions
include frequent and thorough hand washing, covering mouth/nose during
coughs or sneezes, and wearing personal protective equipment that has been
properly fitted and donned. There is no current evidence that suggests that pets or other
domesticated animals play a role in the spread of this virus. However, current
recommendations for those who have COVID-19 are to limit contact with animals,
as well as to wash hands before and after handling them. Studies are
underway to understand how different animals could be infected by SARS-CoV-2.

The WVA will
continue to disseminate information as more becomes known about this novel
virus.